Vacuum Cooling: A Technique Gaining Increasing Interest Among Bakers
(Originally Featured in NBT magazine 2021) Weber Cooling is a leading manufacturer of vacuum cooling systems, providing complete cooling solutions for vegetables, flowers, and other fresh products. In recent years, the bakery industry has also taken notice of Weber Cooling's innovations.
Batch Ovens and Inline Ovens
"Vacuum cooling is a technique that is drawing more interest from bakers, both domestically and internationally," explains Hans Juursma. "Most bakers are aware of the concept, but seeing it applied in a bakery setting is relatively new for many. The impact of this technique on the bakery industry is significant. Not only does it allow for faster cooling of baked goods, but it also enhances the product's overall quality. The versatility of vacuum cooling makes it a valuable tool for any bakery, big or small."
Technology
"Vacuum cooling involves reducing air pressure, which causes the water inside the bread to evaporate quickly. This rapid cooling process helps maintain moisture and prevent staling. By optimizing the cell structure, we can produce bread that is more uniform in texture and has a longer shelf life. The technology is simple yet effective, providing a tangible benefit to bakers who adopt it."
Advantages
"It may sound simple, but the benefits of vacuum cooling are profound. By cooling bread rapidly, we can reduce baking times by 20-40%, leading to significant energy savings and increased production efficiency. Moreover, the quality of the bread improves, with a thinner crust and more active moisture. This results in a product that stays fresh longer and tastes better."
Achievable in Practice
Hans continues, "In practice, the advantages of vacuum cooling translate to a 20-40% reduction in baking time and an overall improvement in product quality. Our customers have seen tangible benefits almost immediately. By implementing this technology, bakers can enhance their product lines and reduce costs, making it a win-win situation."
An Unexpected Benefit
"One unexpected benefit of vacuum cooling is its impact on gluten-free products. At Smart Baking Co., they found that the technique not only improved the texture of their gluten-free cakes but also significantly reduced baking times. This has allowed them to scale their production efficiently while maintaining high quality."
Seeing is Believing
"Weber Cooling is committed to demonstrating the capabilities of vacuum cooling to bakers. We offer comprehensive support, from installation to training, ensuring our clients can fully utilize the technology. Our goal is to help bakers enhance their products and increase profitability."
